The approval of a new 7.2 mg dose of obesity medication aims to enhance treatment strategies for obesity, classified as a chronic disease that requires long-term and personalized management. Marijus Valatka, general director of Novo Nordisk Pharma in Lithuania, emphasized that this dosage allows healthcare providers greater flexibility in tailoring treatment plans, ultimately assisting patients in achieving clinically meaningful weight reductions. Importantly, it is noted that medication is intended to be combined with lifestyle changes, including dietary and physical activity adjustments.

Clinical efficacy of the new dose was evaluated in two clinical trials named STEP UP and STEP UP T2D, which collectively involved over 1,900 participants. This included 1,407 individuals with obesity but without type 2 diabetes, as well as 512 participants who had both obesity and type 2 diabetes. The trials lasted approximately 18 months, during which patients received treatment alongside lifestyle modifications, demonstrating the importance of integrative approaches to obesity treatment.

As the medical community continues to respond to the obesity epidemic, this advancement in medication not only provides more options for patients but also serves to promote discussions about the necessity of combining pharmacological treatments with comprehensive lifestyle changes. This dual approach is vital in managing obesity effectively and is aimed at improving overall health outcomes for affected individuals.